Historical Marker

Civil War Slave Conspiracy

Historical marker location:
Quitman, Georgia
( Marker is at the intersection of South Court Street (U.S. 221) and West Screven Street (U.S. 84), on the right when traveling south on South Court Street.)
Marker installed: 2010

  A brief timeline of the Civil War

  • April 12, 1861: The Civil War begins with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter, located in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor.

  • April 15, 1861: President Abraham Lincoln issues a call for 75,000 volunteers to serve in the Union Army to suppress the rebellion.

  • May 24, 1861: The first major land battle, known as the First Battle of Bull Run (or First Battle of Manassas), takes place in Virginia. It ends in Confederate victory.

  • September 17, 1862: The Battle of Antietam in Maryland becomes the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, with heavy casualties on both sides. The Union forces, commanded by General George McClellan, manage to halt Confederate General Robert E. Lee's advance into Union territory.

  • January 1, 1863: President Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all slaves in Confederate-held territories are to be set free. However, the proclamation does not immediately free all slaves in the United States.

  • July 1-3, 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania takes place, resulting in a significant Union victory and inflicting heavy casualties on Confederate forces. It marks a turning point in the war.

  • November 19, 1863: President Lincoln delivers the Gettysburg Address, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and the preservation of the Union.

  • April 9, 1865: General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.

  • April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.

  • May 10, 1865: Confederate President Jefferson Davis is captured, signaling the collapse of the Confederate government.

  • December 6, 1865: The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially abolishing slavery throughout the country.

While this timeline provides an overview of key events, it is important to note that the Civil War spanned over four years, from 1861 to 1865, and encompassed numerous battles, campaigns, and political developments that shaped the course of American history.

Georgia is also known for its rich agricultural history, with cotton, peanuts, and peaches among the state's top crops.
Georgia random facts
Brooks County, located in the southern part of Georgia, has a rich and diverse history. It was established on December 11, 1858, named after Preston Smith Brooks, a South Carolinian congressman known for his defense of slavery. Before its establishment, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Creek and Seminole Indians.

With the advent of the railroad in the late 19th century, Brooks County experienced rapid growth and development. The railroad brought economic opportunities to the area, leading to an increase in trade and commerce. Cotton became the dominant crop, and plantations were established throughout the county. However, this period also saw the exploitation and mistreatment of African American slaves who were forced to work on these plantations.

During the Civil War, Brooks County, like many other southern regions, suffered greatly. Many of its young men joined the Confederate Army and fought in various engagements. The county experienced military action during Sherman's March to the Sea when Union troops passed through the area and caused significant destruction.

In the post-war years, Brooks County began to rebuild its economy. Agriculture remained a vital industry, but new industries such as lumber and turpentine production emerged. The county also experienced growth in education and culture. Brooks County High School was established in 1914, and the Quitman Opera House became a popular venue for entertainment.

Today, Brooks County continues to be a thriving community with a diverse economy. Its historical landmarks, including the Brooks County Courthouse and the South Georgia Regional Library, provide a glimpse into its past. The county also celebrates its history and heritage through various festivals and events, attracting visitors from near and far.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Brooks County, Georgia.

  • 1818 - Brooks County is created by the Georgia General Assembly on December 11th, named after Preston Brooks, a U.S. Representative from South Carolina.
  • 1861-1865 - During the American Civil War, many men from Brooks County enlist in the Confederate army to fight for the Southern cause.
  • 1888 - The city of Quitman is incorporated as the county seat of Brooks County.
  • 1909 - The Brooks County Courthouse is built, showcasing Neoclassical Revival architecture.
  • 1930s - Brooks County is greatly affected by the Great Depression, with many residents facing economic hardships.
  • 1960s - The Civil Rights Movement brings changes to Brooks County, including efforts to desegregate schools and voting rights demonstrations.
  • 1994 - The Quitman-Brooks County Museum opens to preserve and showcase the local history of the county.
  • 2011 - The Quitman Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural and historical significance.